Applications open for AOP Council

Applications to join the AOP Council have opened as six designated positions and one regional representative position become available.

The six designated positions open for application will be: undergraduate student, pre-registration optometrist, newly qualified and early career optometrist, dispensing optician, and franchisee/joint venture partner optometrist and academic optometrist.

A casual vacancy has also opened for a regional representative for South West England, a term of office which will be held for two years until the next Council elections in 2024.

The application window for the council positions opened today (16 February) and closes on 16 March. Results will be announced in May.

Applications can be made through a form available on the AOP website and the candidates will be selected by the AOP Appointments Committee.

The AOP recommended checking the criteria for the positions in the Council byelaws before applying to confirm eligibility.

AOP Councillors represent members and help to ensure their views and the profession are represented in policymaking. Councillors are involved in communicating with members to collate and present their opinions and concerns at three annual Council meetings.

Councillors also help to promote and encourage AOP membership, as well as assisting members.

Jacqueline May, policy officer for the AOP, said: “Councillors have told us that being part of the AOP Council is a rewarding experience, with opportunities to develop new skills, network and to help bring about positive change to the future of the profession.”

More information on the AOP Council is available on the AOP website under ‘Council’.